4 February 2026
Russia-US
The Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START) is set to expire, as the United States and Russia have not agreed to a new treaty or negotiated one. Russia has 5,459 nuclear warheads while the U.S. has 5,177, according to the Federation of Atomic Scientists.
Iran-US
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the US is ready to negotiate with Iran, but missiles, proxies, and repression have to be on the table. Iran has replied that it is only willing to discuss its nuclear programme. Deadlock seems to still be there.
Pakistan
Pakistan deployed drones and helicopters to quell the Balochistan Liberation Army attack on the desert town of Nushki. The BLA seized the town, and it took the Pakistani army three days to take control of the town. The BLA launched coordinated attacks on Saturday with fighters storming banks, schools, markets and security installations/
Nigeria
At least 162 people have been killed by gunmen in Nigeria’s western Kwara state, according to the Red Cross. It is still unclear who is responsible for the attack. Nigerian security forces have escalated their efforts to confront jihadists and armed bandits in recent months.
A small contingent of US soldiers has been sent to Nigeria, according to sources. The small team will work with the Nigerian army to quell the jihadist threat. President Trump has repeatedly made allegations that there is a Christian genocide in the country.
Afghanistan
According to Human Rights Watch, in 2025, the Afghan Taliban deepened its repression on women, girls, the media and refugees forced to return to Afghanistan. New laws restricting movement were introduced, and the improper wearing of hijabs. The country report can be found here.
Canada
Responding to comments made by Canada’s former chief of the defence staff, Wayne Eyre, Defence Minister David McGuinty stated that Canada is opposed to acquiring nuclear weapons. Eyre stated at an event that Canada should not rule out acquiring nuclear weapons in the future, but currently does not need them. Of course, saying anything at an event in Ottawa causes international media attention.
Social media wires
Sweden and Denmark are sending additional anti-aircraft artillery systems
Estonia boarded and detained a Russian cargo ship in the Baltic Sea
Featured Photo: “Tigr-M and 15U175M TEL from RS-24 Yars ICBM” – Wikimedia Commons, 2026
The Wires Brief is a daily breaking news report incorporating wire service news and social media updates. DefRep cannot verify the authenticity of social media reporters nor the accuracy of social media updates. Feature photos are altered with grayscale.